What is the minimum size wire-type equipment grounding conductor for a 600-ampere, 12,470-volt feeder?

For a 600-ampere, 12,470-volt feeder, the minimum size wire-type equipment grounding conductor is determined by the National Electrical Code (NEC). According to NEC guidelines, the size of the equipment grounding conductor is based on the size of the largest overcurrent protection device (in this case, 600 amperes) and the type of conductor material used.

In this context, a 600-ampere feeder requires specific sizing for safety and effectiveness in providing a proper ground connection to protect against electrical faults. The code stipulates that for copper conductors, the minimum size for an equipment grounding conductor for this amperage is 1 AWG. This size ensures that the conductor can safely carry fault current without overheating and provides a reliable path for fault current to ground in the event of a fault.

Thus, the choice of 1 AWG copper is based on established electrical safety standards which ensure safe operation and compliance.